Victoria Falls Crime and Safety

"Is it Safe" That's the question on everyone's lips before they consider travelling to Zimbabwe. This is completely understandable given that Zimbabwe has featured so much on the international press for its political unrest.

Yes It is Safe! Please come and see for yourself

Victoria Falls has always been its own entity and should be viewed
separately from the rest of Zimbabwe with regards to crime and safety.

So even when Zimbabwe was going
through its worst times Victoria Falls always remained a safe destination,
and as I write this I would confidently state that Victoria Falls is a
perfectly safe tourist destination.

Tourism understandably declined dramatically during
the height of the political tension, but is now rapidly on it's way back up
again. I would like to encourage you see through any bad press, as this really is a safe place to visit.

In Victoria Falls petty crime of course does exist
as with anywhere in the world, but it is at a very low level and certainly
should not deter anyone from visiting this amazing place.

As a city or town goes you are safer here than many many cities around
the world. It's difficult to describe and you will have to visit to believe
it but the people here understand that tourists are their livelihood and
therefore they wont do anything to jeopardise that.

I read many of the reviews from people who have just been to the falls and on the whole they concur with my views.

General things to look out for

There are tons of street vendors in the town, and they can be a bit of a nuisance. Unfortunately for them, as tourism dwindled so did their income, they are just desperate to make a sale, so it’s worth bearing that in mind when dealing with them. These guys are harmless and desperate, and will generally be very willing to help you.

There are "Tourism Police Officers" on patrol throughout the town and they keep the vendors in check, if you are feeling hassled, ask one of these officers to escort you. They are easily identified by their bright yellow bibs.

Do be aware of pick pockets and make sure that you put your cameras straps around your necks, so no-one can make a quick snatch.

“Victoria falls crime in hotels” I have read several reports recently of valuables being stolen from their hotel rooms, quite obviously by the hotel staff. The only advice here is to always lock valuables away, preferably in the hotel safes or in you own lockable suitcases - Don’t Put Temptation in Ones Way – always remember that the locals
do struggle to survive.

Overall the Zimbabwean people are very friendly
and appreciate the business that tourists bring. The Zimbabwe situation
crippled them and they long for a return to complete normality.

On our last trip we made friends with two little “street kids” – Peace Maker and King George – what great names and what characters. There are a few local people and businesses that look after the street kids and see to their needs by feeding them etc. You can often find them catching a ride on the running board of your car, just for a bit of fun.

Visitor Reviews

Please read these reviews from other travellers who have just been to Victoria Falls.